“Then I saw another angel flying directly overhead, with an eternal gospel to proclaim to those who dwell on earth, to every nation and tribe and language and people. And he said with a loud voice, "Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come, and worship him who made heaven and earth, the sea and the springs of water." Another angel, a second, followed, saying, "Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great, she who made all nations drink the wine of the passion of her sexual immorality." - Revelation 14:6-8
The book of Revelation describes the unfolding of World History from God’s perspective. It uses pictures to explain what’s going on in the spiritual realm, behind the visible reality that we mortals can see.
This vision of angels, messengers of God, and the influence they have over the earth, describes what is coming. First there is an angel proclaiming an eternal message of repentance and salvation; then another proclaiming the destruction of a worldly empire that he calls Babylon.
This Babylon is characterized as having spread an evil, immoral influence all over the world and being judged for it. The Bible doesn’t say what world empire it is describing; it calls it Babylon. But Babylon was destroyed back in the time of Daniel and the Bible says it will never be rebuilt, so it’s very likely describing some other world power in the end times that is like Babylon. It could also simply mean the World government of humanity in its rebellion against God.
But what world power in our day is spreading moral confusion and a sinful influence around the world? What world power flies “Pride” flags over its embassies? What world power encourages other countries to legalize abortion, homosexual marriage, and transgenderism in exchange for financial aid?
Every great world power has ended in moral decline. The unbridled human nature, blessed with near-unlimited power and wealth, tends toward corruption. Only the message proclaimed by that first Angel can bring our sinful nature under control. If that message is not heeded; if there is no fear of God, no repentance and faith, destruction is sure to follow. Babylon will fall.
Lord God, have mercy on our nation. Let the Spirit of repentance and salvation move across our land. Deliver us from the fate of every empire before us, by the Gospel of salvation that You have proclaimed. Give us faithful churches and pastors, and hearts that respond to Your Word, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
Pastor Dan Giles
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